The Daewoo A14MF is a 1,399 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It was developed as part of the GM Small Gasoline Engine (SGE) family for compact front-wheel-drive platforms. Featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), DOHC, and 16-valve architecture, it delivers 70 kW (95 PS) and 128 Nm of torque. Variable valve timing (VVT) enhances low-end responsiveness for urban driving conditions.
Fitted to models such as the Daewoo Matiz Creative, Chevrolet Spark, and Holden Barina Spark, the A14MF was engineered for fuel-efficient city commuting with light-load capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 4 standard certification across European markets during its production run.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in GM Korea Service Bulletin ENG-2011-028. This issue stems from insufficient oil pressure delivery during cold starts, leading to increased chain slack and noise. From 2011, revised tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration were implemented to improve reliability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Daewoo A14MF is a 1,399 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (2008–2013). It combines multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,399 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2013) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SM/CF or higher) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SM/CF standards is essential to maintain adequate oil pressure at the front-mounted chain tensioner. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation during warm-up. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low-quality fuel below 95 RON, risking knock and reduced efficiency. Post-2011 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2011 units should be inspected per GM Korea SIB ENG-2011-028. Catalytic converter longevity depends on regular full-load operation to prevent carbon buildup.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 API SM/CF specification (GM Korea SIB ENG-2011-028). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2013 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (GM Korea PT-2010).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A14-7721, D14-3450, ENG-2011-028
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Daewoo A14MF was used across Daewoo's MAT platform with transverse mounting and shared under GM Global Small Car architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Matiz Creative and revised ECU tuning for Holden Barina Spark-and from 2011 the facelifted Spark models adopted updated timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS A14-7725). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('4' for A14MF series). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2011 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from A14NET: Original A14MF lacks direct injection and turbocharging; A14NET uses black valve cover with green cam cover. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2011 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (GM Korea SIB ENG-2011-028).
The A14MF's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal GM Korea quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant share of pre-2011 engines exhibiting chain rattle before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter failures linked to prolonged idling in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and infrequent oil changes increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO A14MF.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with DAEWOO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
DAEWOO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDAEWOO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
